Creamy Squash, Apple and Corn Bisque

Creamy Squash, Apple and Corn Bisque Recipe - Vegetarian Food

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Creamy Squash, Apple and Corn Bisque is a delicious and comforting soup that combines the sweetness of apples with the earthiness of squash and the crunch of corn. This recipe is perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening, and is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional bisque soups, which are typically made with seafood or vegetables. The combination of squash, apples, and corn creates a unique and flavorful dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) acorn or butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and finely chopped
3 tart apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 medium leeks, rinsed well and sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1.5 cups frozen corn kernels
6 tbsp heavy cream
0.25 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
4 scallions, finely minced - for garnish

How to prepare

In a saucepan over medium heat, sauté the squash and apples in the butter for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the leeks and garlic, and sauté for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the broth and corn, and simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in the cream and nutmeg, and heat until warmed through.
Sprinkle with minced scallions before serving.

Variations

For a vegan version, you can substitute coconut milk for the heavy cream.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds or crumbled bacon for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to peel and chop the squash and apples finely to ensure they cook evenly and blend smoothly into the soup.

- Rinsing the leeks well is important to remove any dirt or grit that may be trapped between the layers.

- For a smoother texture, you can puree the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender before adding the cream and nutmeg.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bisque with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a crisp white wine or a hot cup of tea.

Cooking Techniques

To peel and chop the squash easily, you can microwave it for a few minutes to soften the skin.

- Sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth helps to develop their flavors and create a rich base for the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of winter squash in place of acorn or butternut squash, such as pumpkin or kabocha.

- If you don't have leeks, you can use onions instead for a similar flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This bisque can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of bisque with a drizzle of olive oil, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as roasted chicken, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a hearty grain salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Creamy Squash, Apple and Corn Bisque contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Creamy Squash, Apple and Corn Bisque contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this bisque contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the squash and apples. It also contains minerals such as potassium and magnesium from the vegetables and broth.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter and cream) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Overall, this bisque is a nutritious and satisfying meal option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Creamy Squash, Apple and Corn Bisque is a delicious and nutritious soup that is perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day. With a balance of sweet and savory flavors, this bisque is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe for Creamy Squash, Apple and Corn Bisque. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, in her quaint little farmhouse kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the most incredible aroma that filled the air - a beautiful blend of sweet apples, savory squash, and fresh corn.

Mrs. Jenkins was bustling around the kitchen, her hands moving deftly as she chopped, stirred, and seasoned. I watched in awe as she effortlessly transformed simple ingredients into a masterpiece of flavor and texture. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this soup for myself.

As I sat at the kitchen table, Mrs. Jenkins began to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The secret, she said, was to use the freshest, most flavorful ingredients and to cook with love and care.

Mrs. Jenkins guided me through the recipe, showing me how to prepare the squash, apple, and corn just right. She taught me how to sauté the vegetables until they were golden and caramelized, how to simmer them in a rich, creamy broth, and how to blend everything together into a smooth, velvety bisque.

As we sat down to enjoy our soup, I marveled at the depth of flavor and the comforting warmth of each spoonful. The sweetness of the apples paired perfectly with the earthy richness of the squash and the sweetness of the corn. It was a symphony of flavors that danced on my tastebuds and warmed my soul.

From that day on, I made it my mission to perfect the recipe for Creamy Squash, Apple and Corn Bisque. I experimented with different varieties of squash, apples, and corn, tweaking the seasonings and adjusting the cooking times until I had created a version that was uniquely my own.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, delighting in their smiles and satisfied sighs as they savored each spoonful. It became a staple at holiday gatherings and special occasions, a dish that was always met with eager anticipation and rave reviews.

As I grew older, I passed the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, teaching them the same love and care that Mrs. Jenkins had shown me all those years ago. I watched with pride as they carried on the tradition, each adding their own unique twist to the dish and making it their own.

And now, as I sit in my kitchen, stirring a pot of Creamy Squash, Apple and Corn Bisque on the stove, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all the memories and moments that this recipe has given me. It's more than just a soup - it's a connection to the past, a link to the present, and a legacy for the future.

As I take a spoonful of the bisque and savor the familiar blend of flavors, I know that this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart. It's a reminder of the love and laughter that has filled my kitchen over the years, and a testament to the power of good food to bring people together.

So the next time you find yourself in need of a little comfort and warmth, why not give Creamy Squash, Apple and Corn Bisque a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be passing the recipe down to your own loved ones, creating new memories and traditions to cherish for years to come.